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Things to Do in Rishikesh
Rishikesh packs an unusual amount of variety into a small town on the banks of the Ganga — spiritual, adventurous, and simply relaxing, often in the same day. Here's a practical rundown of what most travelers spend their time doing.
By the Hotel Chandreshwar team · Last updated 1 January 2026
Watch the Ganga Aarti
The evening Ganga Aarti — a ceremony of lamps, chanting and bells performed as the sun sets over the river — is one of the most-repeated Rishikesh experiences for a reason. Triveni Ghat is the most well-known spot for it, drawing both pilgrims and travelers to the riverbank each evening.
Arrive a little early to find a good spot by the water, and dress modestly out of respect for what is, first and foremost, a religious ritual rather than a show.
Walk across Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
These two suspension bridges over the Ganga are as much a Rishikesh landmark as the river itself. Both connect the town's two banks and are lined with small shops, cafés and temples — a good way to get a feel for the town on foot.
Try yoga and meditation
Rishikesh is widely known as a center for yoga, with everything from single drop-in classes to multi-week teacher training courses on offer at ashrams and studios across town. Even travelers with no prior practice can usually find a beginner-friendly class.
Go white-water rafting
The stretch of the Ganga around Rishikesh is a popular white-water rafting spot, with operators offering runs of varying length and difficulty depending on the season and water levels. Rafting is typically available outside the monsoon months — check current conditions and choose a licensed operator.
Visit the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
The former ashram where The Beatles famously stayed in 1968 is now open to visitors as a heritage and art space inside the Rajaji National Park buffer zone, with murals, old meditation cells and forest walking paths.
Source: Chaurasi Kutia on Wikipedia
Explore local markets and cafés
Between activities, Rishikesh's laid-back café culture and small markets around Ram Jhula and Tapovan are worth wandering — a good way to slow down between more structured sightseeing.
Staying in Rishikesh
Wherever your Rishikesh plans take you, Hotel Chandreshwar offers a comfortable, convenient base in Chandreshwar Nagar — AC Double Bed Room and Non-AC Double Bed Room, all with attached bathrooms and hot water.